Dominion and Wealth A Critical Analysis of Karl Marx' Theory of Commercial Law

Freedom of speech is important but not absolute. Nearly everyone agree that law should prevent harm, even when that harm is inflicted through words. But how can we reconcile this with the value of freedom of expression? This book offers a principled approach to this vexed problem. Since the contents & the limits of freedom of speech are informed by its moral & political rationales, the discussion begins by considering the main philosophical arguments usually supplied for elevating freedom of speech above other social values. It then develops a framework for analyzing the relationship between speech & harm, & discusses the idea that legal restrictions on speech should be viewpoint-neutral. The book also examines the notion that speech restrictions may be a useful way of both equalizing expressive opportunities in society & remedying discrimination produced through speech acts. Various theoretical threads of the book are then drawn together to culminate in a discussion of one of the most controversial questions confronting modern democratic societies: should racially vilifying speech (hate speech) be prohibited by law? The book is addressed to philosophers of law, political theorists, constitutional lawyers & everyone interested in protecting civil rights.Kline, Donna C. is the author of 'Dominion and Wealth A Critical Analysis of Karl Marx' Theory of Commercial Law', published 1987 under ISBN 9789027724991 and ISBN 9027724997.